NPR posted video footage of Jack White’s surprise parking lot performance at SXSW. Two songs – one a Buddy Holly cover, the other “Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground.” After Jack’s performance, you get some music from new Third Man artist, Seasick Steve.

The White Stripes would like to announce that today, February 2nd, 2011, their band has officially ended and will make no further new recordings or perform live.

The reason is not due to artistic differences or lack of wanting to continue, nor any health issues as both Meg and Jack are feeling fine and in good health.

It is for a myriad of reasons, but mostly to preserve what is beautiful and special about the band and have it to stay that way.

Meg and Jack want to thank everyone of their fans and admirers for the incredible support they have given throughout the 13 plus years of The White Stripes’ intense and incredible career.

Third Man Records will continue to put out unreleased live and studio recordings from The White Stripes in their Vault subscription record club, as well as through regular channels.

Both Meg and Jack hope this decision isn’t met with sorrow but that it is seen as a positive move done out of respect for the art and music that the band has created. It is also done with the utmost respect to those fans who’ve shared in those creations, with their feelings considered greatly.

With that in mind the band have to say this:

“The White Stripes do not belong to Meg and Jack anymore. The White Stripes belong to you now and you can do with it whatever you want. The beauty of art and music is that it can last forever if people want it to. Thank you for sharing this experience. Your involvement will never be lost on us and we are truly grateful.”

Over the past year Third Man Records have brought their pop-up retail shops to New York, Los Angeles and London – completely transforming temporary spaces into seemingly permanent locations that are not so much about commerce as they are about a collision of artistic expression, design and a personal one-of-a-kind experience for customers.

Up next, Third Man Records is excited to announce their most ambitious temporary store yet, set to pop-up at the South By Southwest Music Conference in Austin, Texas from March 17th through March 20th. Located at Frank Restaurant on 4th and Colorado, Third Man Records at SXSW will feature exclusive Third Man vinyl only available at TMR SXSW, debut releases, screenings of The White Stripes’ film Under Great White Northern Lights, food, drinks and much more. Continue reading →